September 15th marks National Crème de Menthe Day, dedicated to the creamy, peppermint-flavored liqueur widely used in cocktails and desserts. Celebrate by savoring your favorite combination featuring this delightful treat!

History of Crème de Menthe

• Origins: Crème de menthe, which translates to “mint cream” in French, originated in France in the late 19th century. It was created by Emile Giffard, a pharmacist who sought to create a refreshing digestive aid. Giffard’s creation was a hit, and he transitioned from pharmacy to distilling.
• Popularity: The liqueur quickly gained popularity and became a staple in both European and American cocktail culture. It is known for its vibrant green color, although a clear version is also available.

What is Crème de Menthe?

• Composition: Crème de menthe is made by steeping mint leaves in alcohol and adding sugar. It is known for its sweet, cooling mint flavor.
• Varieties: There are two main varieties of crème de menthe: green (colored with natural or artificial coloring) and white (clear), both offering the same minty flavor but different visual appeal.

Significance of National Crème de Menthe Day

• Culinary Versatility: This day highlights the versatility of crème de menthe in various culinary applications, from cocktails to desserts.
• Cultural Appreciation: It’s a day to appreciate a classic liqueur that has been part of cocktail culture for over a century.

How to Celebrate National Crème de Menthe Day

1. Enjoying Crème de Menthe Cocktails:

   • Grasshopper: One of the most famous crème de menthe cocktails, made with equal parts green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and cream, shaken with ice and strained into a chilled cocktail glass.
   • Stinger: A classic cocktail combining brandy and white crème de menthe, typically served over ice in a rocks glass.

2. Making Crème de Menthe Desserts:

   • Crème de Menthe Brownies: Add a layer of crème de menthe-flavored frosting to your favorite brownie recipe for a minty twist.
   • Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Incorporate crème de menthe into homemade ice cream for a refreshing and flavorful treat.
   • Crème de Menthe Parfait: Layer vanilla ice cream with crème de menthe and chocolate syrup for a delicious parfait.

3. Cooking with Crème de Menthe:

   • Minty Sauces: Use crème de menthe to create mint-flavored sauces for desserts like cakes, puddings, or even fruit salads.
   • Marinades and Glazes: Experiment with using crème de menthe in marinades or glazes for meats, especially lamb, for a unique flavor.

4. Hosting a Crème de Menthe Tasting Party:

   • Cocktail Sampling: Invite friends over to sample different crème de menthe cocktails. Provide recipe cards and ingredients for guests to mix their own drinks.
   • Dessert Buffet: Create a dessert buffet featuring various crème de menthe-infused treats. Encourage guests to bring their own creations.

5. Sharing on Social Media:

   • Recipe Sharing: Share your favorite crème de menthe recipes or cocktail creations on social media using the hashtag #CremeDeMentheDay.
   • Photos and Reviews: Post photos of your crème de menthe celebrations and review different brands or recipes.

Fun Facts about Crème de Menthe

• Green vs. White: The green version of crème de menthe gets its color from mint leaves or added coloring, while the white version is colorless but has the same flavor.
• Digestive Aid: Crème de menthe was originally created as a digestive aid due to its minty flavor and soothing properties.
• Cultural Impact: Crème de menthe has been featured in various films and literature, often symbolizing elegance and sophistication in cocktail culture.

Health Considerations

• Moderation: Like all alcoholic beverages, crème de menthe should be consumed in moderation.
• Sugar Content: Crème de menthe is high in sugar, so it’s best enjoyed occasionally and in small quantities, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake.

Conclusion

National Crème de Menthe Day is a delightful celebration of a classic mint-flavored liqueur. Whether enjoyed in cocktails, desserts, or culinary creations, crème de menthe adds a refreshing and flavorful twist to various dishes and drinks. Celebrate the day by trying out new recipes, hosting a tasting party, or simply enjoying a classic crème de menthe cocktail. It’s a perfect occasion to appreciate the rich history and versatile uses of this beloved liqueur.